The Bakken is a large oil formation located in the Williston Basin, primarily in the states of North Dakota and Montana. It is known for its rich deposits of oil, which have been extracted using advanced drilling techniques, including hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling. The formation has significantly boosted local economies and increased oil production in the United States. Discovered in the 1950s, the Bakken gained prominence in the early 2000s due to rising oil prices and technological advancements. The area has attracted numerous energy companies and workers, leading to rapid population growth and infrastructure development in nearby towns like Williston.